Nursing Salaries for LPN, RN, AP

Learn about nursing salaries and learn about the benefits of certifications and advanced degrees such as the BSN and MSN.

Nursing is not only an in-demand profession; nursing salaries are also fairly lucrative. With the current nursing shortage, qualified nurses can find exceptional nursing career opportunities across the country.

Before you start your job search, however, let alone your nursing education, you will want to learn what you can about the nurse salary potential that different nursing careers offer.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Nursing Salaries

Licensed practical nurses typically train for their careers through a year-long education program at a hospital, community college or vocational school. After graduation, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to earn their nursing licensure.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2016-17 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median national annual salary for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is $42,490. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2016-17 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median national annual salary for registered nurses is $67,490. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.

Advanced Practice (AP) Nursing Salaries

Advanced Practice Nurses hold a master’s degree in a particular focus area and provide one-on-one patient care services similar to those a physician would perform. The following statistics show annual nurse salary ranges for the different categories of advanced practice nursing careers.

*The salary information listed is based on a national average, unless noted. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors. National long-term projections of employment growth may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Recruitment Incentives

The nursing shortage offers extremely advantageous opportunities for current nurses earning a higher degree and for nursing students preparing to enter the workforce. Many hospitals are now offering incentive programs such as: